Now More Than Ever...

CLP Program Focuses on Practical BenefitsBY BARRY S. MARKS, CLP

Equipment finance attorney Barry Marks speaksfor many in lauding the benefits of the Certified LeasingProgram offered by the CLP Foundation. While the industry continues to reshape itself, Marks and othersfirmly believe that the CLP designation is not only beneficial, but critical for success.

BARRY S. MARKS, CLP
Founding Partner,
Marks & Weinberg, PC

Like most of the leasing industry, the Certified Lease Professional (CLP) program is facing new challenges. Despite aggressive marketing
efforts, the number of CLPs has declined over the past
few years as leasing companies have left the industry,
experienced leasing professionals have retired and
many companies have focused their attention on
controlling expenses rather than improving skills and
networking.

“We think this is short-term thinking,” said Theresa
Kabot, CLP, of Kabot Commercial Leasing. “The fact is
that obtaining CLP certification actually produces business and employment opportunities for our members
and is exactly what qualified leasing personnel should
be doing in this market in order to be more successful.”

“As a broker funding source, we have always considered CLP certifications a significant positive when evaluating prospective brokers. . . . CLPs generallyhave a broader understanding of the industry, including knowledge thatwould not normally be acquired in the day-to-day broker/lessor experience.”

— Dwight Galloway, CLP, SVP, Navitas LeaseAs evidence of these real-world benefits, the CLPFoundation has begun assembling testimonials andinterviewing members, encouraging them to describehow being a CLP helps them and benefits those thatdo business with them.